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Ways to Improve English Proficiency

By Gregory Hamel

There are many ways to learn English.

English is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Gaining English proficiency can be an important aspect of education in many fields from business to aviation to science. Even native English speakers can benefit from increasing knowledge and improving writing skills. There are many accessible ways to improve English proficiency effectively without taking formal classes.

Speak Regularly

Interact with other English speakers frequently.

One of the most important aspects of gaining proficiency in any language is speaking it regularly. Self-study can improve reading and comprehension skills, but interacting with other English speakers is essential for boosting real-world comprehension and practical use of the English language. If you live in a bilingual home, designate a certain amount of time each day for speaking only in English. Making English-speaking friends, perhaps those interested in learning a different language that you speak, can help increase proficiency. Living in an English-speaking country will help immerse you in the language and increase all aspects of your English knowledge.

Media

Watch movies in English.

Watching or listening to media in English is a way to improve English comprehension without feeling like you are studying. Watch popular English movies and listen to English music. Avoid watching dubbed films in favor of those with English voice and subtitles.

Online Learning

The internet is loaded with available resources.

The Internet is full of resources that can help you improve your English proficiency. Reading news articles at English news websites is a way to work on reading comprehension. The Internet is one of the best places to go to improve vocabulary since definitions can be looked up easily with a simple web search. It can also be helpful to bookmark an English dictionary website. Some dictionary sites, such as The Free Online Dictionary, have vocabulary games and other learning tools available right on the front page. Free Rice is another vocabulary-building website that allows users to answer multiple-choice vocabulary questions and the site will donate 10 grains of rice to fight world hunger for each correct answer. Participating in an English-speaking message board or forum community is a way to work on your writing ability while discussing topics of interest. The Internet can allow you to use English in some way every day.

Classes

Teacher in an English language class.

While it is possible to increase proficiency in English through other means, taking formal classes or joining a club dedicated to learning English can accelerate learning. Classes can help increase motivation and keep you on a normal schedule of study, which is important for learning any language.

References

About the Author

Gregory Hamel has been a writer since September 2008 and has also authored three novels. He has a Bachelor of Arts in economics from St. Olaf College. Hamel maintains a blog focused on massive open online courses and computer programming.